Automated solution dispenser

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to an automated solution dispenser for dispensing a solution having a defined list of characteristics. In particular, the automated solution dispenser according to the present invention is provided with one or more of the following, modules: Central Mixing Chamber (CMC), Flush and Verification System (FVS), Liquid Handling System (LHS), Control System (CS), Pivot Pipe System (PPS), Solid Handling System (SHS) (which includes a Delivery mechanism and a Measuring mechanism), a Bottle Handling System (BHS), a Water Purification System (WPS) and Bottle Marking/Label (BM). The combination of one or more of these modules enables the automation of the creation of solution having the required characteristics.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an automated solution dispenser fordispensing a solution having a defined list of characteristics.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

One of the most common activities in many chemical fields is thepreparation of liquid solutions. This happens for example in liquidhandling (wet) laboratories in both industry and academia. Outside ofindustry, most of the preparation is done manually. In some cases thepreparation is very delicate, and with the preparation process a varietyof parameters such as temperature and pH have to be controlled—sometimesadditionally degasification (removal of dissolved gases from liquids) isnecessary.

Controlling the amounts of substances going into a solution is critical,as otherwise the solution is essentially random. This becomesparticularly important in sciences, where there are few cues (visual orotherwise) to the contents of a solution. Furthermore, monitoringcharacteristics such as the pH value of a solution is often required forscientific experiments where this information is essential, but it alsohas significant implications on various other applications. Similarly,monitoring the temperature is valuable in science because pH andtemperature are linked—changes in temperature can mask a difference inpH. To this end, it is impossible to control pH to a very accuratedegree without knowing the temperature of a solution.

Cleaning the environment in which the solution is prepared is vital ascross contamination is unacceptable in the scientific sphere, and ishardly desired anywhere else. On the other hand, reducing time use isalso important in any process automation, and manual cleaning and/orexpendable component replacement would negate much of this benefit.

Controlling the temperature of the solution is also important, as somesolutions have to be prepared at a certain temperature. While there areways around this (input substances are at specific temperatures),ideally there should be heating and cooling elements embedded in to thechamber, to regulate the temperature of the chamber.

Controlling the pH of the solution is equally important, as correctingthe pH is not particularly difficult (add a certain amount of acid orbase). For many scientific solutions this is essential, as they will notbe at the correct pH after the components are mixed.

However, to date, automated solutions for use in laboratories have notbeen satisfactory. As such, we have appreciated the need for an improvedautomated solution mixer and dispenser.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides an automated solution dispenser fordispensing a solution having a defined list of characteristics, thecharacteristics comprising one or more characteristics selected from thegroup comprising pH, temperature, chemical composition, the dispensercomprising: a mixing chamber; at least one controllable inlet port tothe chamber for controllably receiving components to be mixed into asolution; at least one input sensor for determining a quantitative inputof the components to be mixed into the solution; agitation means foragitating the received components; at least one solution sensor forsensing one or more characteristics of the solution; an outlet portcoupled to the mixing chamber; a controllable outlet port valve forcontrolling the flow of solution through the output port; and acontroller coupled to the at least one controllable inlet port, the atleast one input sensor, the agitator, the at least one solution sensor,and the outlet port valve, and the controller being configured tomeasure the received components, mix the received components into asolution and dispense the solution, wherein the at least onecontrollable inlet port comprises a controllable solids port forcontrollably supplying solid components to the mixing chamber from oneor more solid sources, the controllable solids port comprising a solidsdispensing system engageable with a solids dosing mechanism forcontrollably dispensing a dosed amount of a solid from a solid source.

By providing a controllable solids port, this enables the automation ofthe solution creation, in that all manner of solid typed may be handledwithout user intervention. For example, Crystalline form, Loose powderor Clumpy powder.

Preferably, the solids dispensing system comprises a dosing mechanismdriver moveable in and out of engagement with the solids dosingmechanism, and wherein, when engaged, the solids dosing mechanism isdriveable to dispense a dosed amount of the solid by the dosingmechanism driver.

In embodiments, the solution dispensing system comprises a moveable tubeextending from an inlet of the mixing chamber towards the solid dosingmechanism, the tube having an inlet for receiving solids dispensed froma solid source, an outlet coupled to the inlet of the mixing chamber andbeing configured to allow solids received from the solid source to passtherethrough. Preferably, the moveable tube is moveable in and out ofengagement with the solids dosing mechanism, and wherein, when engaged,the tube forms a path between the solid dispensing mechanism and themixing chamber through which solids may pass.

In embodiments with the moveable tube, the tube is shaped to preventdispensed solids from attaching to an inner surface of the tube.Furthermore, a wall of the tube may be electrostatically charged orcoated with a non-stick material to repel dispensed solids.

In some embodiments, the solids dosing mechanism comprises: an inlet forreceiving a solid; a dosing screw rotatable about its longitudinal axisfor carrying the received solid; a rotatable base coupled to the dosingscrew, the rotatable base being rotatable in cooperation with the dosingscrew; and an outlet for receiving the carried solids from the dosingscrew, wherein, when rotated about its longitudinal axis, the dosingscrew carries a received solid from the inlet to the outlet, and whereinthe dosing screw and rotatable base are movable along the longitudinalaxis of the dosing screw between an open position in which the outlet isopen, and a closed position in which the outlet is closed.

Preferably, the dosing screw and rotatable base are coupled to a geargate for driving the dosing screw and rotatable base, and wherein thegear gate is drivable by the dosing mechanism driver.

In embodiments, the dosing screw and rotatable base are biased in theclosed position. This enables solid sources comprising the dosingmechanism to be removed from the system without solids contained withina solid source spilling out.

In some embodiments, the controller is configured to determine a weightof a dosed amount of solid dispensed from a solid source dependent on atime and rate at which the solid dosing mechanism is driven.

In further embodiments, the solid source is a container containing asolid to be dispensed, and the solid dosing mechanism is coupleable tothe container. In some of the further embodiments, the automatedsolution dispenser comprises a plurality of containers, each containerbeing coupleable to a solid dosing mechanism.

Preferably, the plurality of containers are controllably moveablebetween a dispensing position in which a container is aligned with thecontrollable inlet port to enable dispensing of a contained solid, and astorage position in which the container is not aligned with thecontrollable inlet port.

More preferably, the plurality of containers are disposed on a turntablehaving an axis of rotation such that the containers are movable betweenthe dispensing and storage positions.

In some embodiments, the input sensor comprises a weighing deviceconfigured to determine a loss in weight of the container upondispensing of a solid into the mixing chamber from the container, andwherein the controller is configured to controllably supply the solid tothe mixing chamber until a target weight of the solid is reached basedon the determined loss in weight of the container.

In other embodiments, the input sensor comprises a solids weighingdevice for receiving, weighing and dispensing a dispensed solid from thesolids dosing mechanism into the mixing chamber.

In embodiments comprising solids weighing device, the solids weighingdevice comprises: a moveable receptacle for receiving the dispensedsolid; a weighing device coupled to the moveable receptacle for weighingthe dispensed solid; and a dispensing mechanism for dispensing theweighed solid into the mixing chamber. Preferably, the weighing devicecomprises a load cell or a force compensated electromagnet.

In some of these embodiments, the dispensing mechanism is configured tomove the receptacle to a receiving position when receiving a solid to beweighed from the solid dosing mechanism, and configured to move thereceptacle to a dispense position when the weighed solid is to bedispensed into the mixing chamber.

In further embodiments, the input sensor comprises a weighing deviceconfigured to determine a gain in weight of the mixing chamber uponreceipt of a solid into the mixing chamber from a solid source, andwherein the controller is configured to controllably supply the solid tothe mixing chamber until a target weight of the solid is reached basedon the determined gain in weight of the mixing chamber.

In embodiments, the input sensor comprises a solution sensor for sensingone or more characteristics of the solution and wherein the controlleris configured to controllably supply the solid to the mixing chamberuntil a target characteristic of the solution is detected.

In further embodiments, the controller is further configured to controlthe dispenser to implement a cleaning cycle in which at least one inletport is controlled to input a cleaning fluid into the mixing chamber,and the controllable outlet valve is controlled to dispense the cleaningfluid.

In embodiments comprising the cleaning cycle, the automated solutiondispenser according further comprises a cleanliness measuring sensorcoupled to the controller and wherein said controller is configured tomeasure cleanliness and do one or more further cleaning cycles inresponse to the sensed cleanliness of the cleaning fluid after acleaning cycle. Preferably, the cleanliness measuring sensor comprises aconductivity sensor or turbidity sensor.

In one embodiment, at least one input port is coupled to one or morecleaning nozzles arranged to spray received cleaning fluid inside thechamber. Alternatively, at least one input port is coupled to a sprayball comprising a plurality of nozzles arranged to spray receivedcleaning fluid inside the chamber. Alternatively, the mixing chambercomprises a plurality of cleaning nozzles disposed in a wall of themixing chamber, the nozzles being coupled to at least one input port andbeing arranged to spray received cleaning fluid inside the chamber.

In some embodiments, the at least one input is coupled to a pump forsupplying cleaning fluid under pressure. Preferably, the at least oneinput is coupled to a detergent source for dispensing detergent into thecleaning fluid. More preferably, the detergent source comprises aninjection pump.

In these embodiments, the cleaning cycle cleans a flowable path from theinlet port of the mixing chamber through to an output of the outletport.

Furthermore in these embodiments, the automated solution dispensercomprises a controllable drying means coupled to the controller, andwherein the controller controls the controllable drying means toimplement a drying cycle to dry the mixing chamber and/or inlet port.Preferably, the controllable drying means comprises a fan or a source ofsubstantially dry air.

The present invention also provides an automated solution dispenser fordispensing a solution having a defined list of characteristics, thecharacteristics comprising one or more characteristics selected from thegroup comprising pH, temperature, chemical composition, the dispensercomprising: a mixing chamber; at least one controllable inlet port tothe chamber for controllably receiving components to be mixed into asolution; at least one input sensor for determining a quantitative inputof the components to be mixed into the solution; agitation means foragitating the received components; at least one solution sensor forsensing one or more characteristics of the solution; a cleanlinessmeasuring sensor; an outlet port coupled to the mixing chamber; acontrollable outlet port valve for controlling the flow of solutionthrough the output port; and a controller coupled to the at least onecontrollable inlet port, the at least one input sensor, the agitator,the at least one solution sensor, the cleanliness measuring sensor andthe outlet port valve, and the controller being configured to measurethe received components, mix the received components into a solution anddispense the solution, wherein the controller is further configured tocontrol the dispenser to implement a cleaning cycle in which at leastone inlet port is controlled to input a cleaning fluid into the mixingchamber, and the controllable outlet valve is controlled to dispense thecleaning fluid, and wherein the controller is configured to measurecleanliness and do one or more further cleaning cycles in response tothe sensed cleanliness of the cleaning fluid after a cleaning cycle.

By implementing a cleaning cycle, the automated solution dispenseradvantageously enables automated batch processing of solutions, as nouser intervention is required between different solutions being made. Assuch, there is no cross-contamination between the solutions beingcreated.

The cleanliness measuring sensor enables the automated cleaning cycle todetermine whether or not the cleaning cycle just performed has beensuccessful or not. If not, the cycle is repeated until the cleanlinessmeasurement sensor indicates that the cleaning solution is clean enoughto indicate that the automated solution dispenser is clean.

Preferably, the cleanliness measuring sensor comprises a conductivitysensor or turbidity sensor.

In embodiments of the automated solution dispenser, at least one inputport is coupled to one or more cleaning nozzles arranged to sprayreceived cleaning fluid inside the chamber. In alternative embodimentsof the automated solution dispenser, at least one input port is coupledto a spray ball comprising a plurality of nozzles arranged to sprayreceived cleaning fluid inside the chamber. In further alternativeembodiments, of the automated solution dispenser, the mixing chambercomprises a plurality of cleaning nozzles disposed in a wall of themixing chamber, the nozzles being coupled to at least one input port andbeing arranged to spray received cleaning fluid inside the chamber.

In embodiments, the at least one input is coupled to a pump forsupplying cleaning fluid.

In some embodiments, the at least one input is coupled to a detergentsource for dispensing detergent into the cleaning fluid. Preferably, thedetergent source comprises an injection pump.

In embodiments, the cleaning cycle cleans a flowable path from the inletport of the mixing chamber through to an output of the outlet port. Assuch, there is no risk of cross-contamination between solution producingcycles, since each part of the system involved in creating the solutionis cleaned.

In some embodiments, the automated solution dispenser comprises acontrollable drying means coupled to the controller, and wherein thecontroller controls the controllable drying means to implement a dryingcycle to dry the mixing chamber and/or inlet port. Preferably, thecontrollable drying means comprises a fan or a source of substantiallydry air.

By providing a drying cycle, this prevents droplets of cleaning fluidleft over from the cleaning cycle(s) (or any residual humidity) fromcross-contaminating with, or otherwise affecting, the solution madeafter the cleaning cycle.

The present invention also provides an automated solution dispenser fordispensing a solution having a defined list of characteristics, thecharacteristics comprising one or more characteristics selected from thegroup comprising pH, temperature, chemical composition, the dispensercomprising: a mixing chamber; at least one controllable inlet port tothe chamber for controllably receiving components to be mixed into asolution; at least one input sensor for determining a quantitative inputof the components to be mixed into the solution; agitation means foragitating the received components; at least one solution sensor forsensing one or more characteristics of the solution; an outlet portcoupled to the mixing chamber; a controllable outlet port valve forcontrolling the flow of solution through the output port; and acontroller coupled to the at least one controllable inlet port, the atleast one input sensor, the agitator, the at least one solution sensor,and the outlet port valve, and the controller being configured tomeasure the received components, mix the received components into asolution and dispense the solution, wherein the controller is furtherconfigured to control the dispenser to implement a cleaning cycle inwhich at least one inlet port is controlled to input a cleaning fluidinto the mixing chamber, and the controllable outlet valve is controlledto dispense the cleaning fluid, wherein the at least one controllableinlet port comprises a controllable liquid inlet port for controllablysupplying liquid to the mixing chamber from one or more liquid sources,and wherein the at least one controllable inlet port comprises acontrollable solids port for controllably supplying solid components tothe mixing chamber from one or more solid sources.

In some embodiments, the at least one controllable inlet port comprisesa controllable liquid inlet port for controllably supplying liquid tothe mixing chamber from one or more liquid sources.

In this embodiment, the liquid source of the automated solutiondispenser comprises a continuous supply, a reservoir internal to thesolution dispenser or a reservoir external to the solution dispenser.

In embodiments, controllable liquid inlet port comprises one or morepumps coupled to the controller, and wherein the controller isconfigured to control the one or more pumps to dispense a desired amountof liquid from the one or more liquid sources. Preferably, the pumpcomprises a peristaltic pump, a syringe pump, a piston pump, areciprocating pump, a diaphragm pump, a screw pump, a rotating lobepump, a gear pump or a plunger pump.

In some embodiments, the outlet port of any of the automated solutiondispensers described may be coupled to a controllable directingmechanism for directing a dispensed solution to a desired station, andwherein the controller is configured to control the directing mechanismto dispense a solution to a desired station dependent on a program modeof the automated solution dispenser.

In such an embodiment, the station comprises a drain, a bottle handlingstation, a pH sensor storage liquid recycle station, a filtering andbottling station, a degassing and bottling station or an analysing andbottling station.

In any of the embodiments described above, the solution sensor comprisesa temperature sensor, and wherein the controller is configured tocontrol heating and/or cooling means to control the temperature of thesolution based on a target temperature.

In any of the embodiments described above, the automated solutiondispenser further comprising memory storage means, and wherein thecontroller is configured to measure and store a plurality of operatingparameters of the automated solution dispenser during operation andstore the parameters in the memory storage means.

In such an embodiment, preferably, the operating parameters comprise oneor more of operating time, target temperature, target pH, and targetcomposition of solution. Preferably, the controller is configured tooutput one or more of the operating parameters. Preferably, thecontroller is configured to output the one or more operating parametersto a label for affixing to a container containing a solution dispensedby the automated solution dispenser.

In any of the embodiments described above, the controller is configuredto implement a storage cycle when the automated solution dispenser isnot in use, the storage cycle comprising: controlling an inlet port toinput a storage solution into the mixing chamber, and wherein thestorage solution is selected to preserve a solution sensor.

In any of the embodiments described above, the controller is configuredto implement a calibration cycle to calibrate a solution sensor, thecalibration cycle comprising: controlling an inlet port to input asolution having a known characteristic into the mixing chamber; readingan output of a solution sensor; comparing the reading with the knowncharacteristic; and adjusting the solution sensor based on a differencebetween the read output and the known characteristic.

In any of the embodiments, the automated solution dispenser may comprisea filter in fluid communication with the outlet port for filtering areceived solution disposed through the outlet port.

In any of the embodiments, the automated solution dispenser may comprisea water purifier, providing deionised and filtered water to be used inthe automated solution dispenser—in direct fluid communication orchannelled through a pump—with at least one inlet port of the centralmixing chamber.

LIST OF FIGURES

The present invention will now be described, by way of example only, andwith reference to the drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 shows an overview of an automated solution dispenser according tothe present invention;

FIG. 2 shows the central mixing chamber;

FIG. 3 shows the flush and verification system;

FIG. 4 shows the liquid handling system;

FIG. 5 shows mechanical seals;

FIG. 6 shows a pivot pipe;

FIG. 7 shows the solids handling system;

FIG. 8 shows a turn table for the solids handling system;

FIG. 9 shows the turn table of FIG. 8 in more detail;

FIG. 10 shows a dosing system;

FIG. 11 shows a solids platform weight scale and dosing driver

FIG. 12 shows an alternative solids platform and dosing driver;

FIG. 13 shows an alternative weight scale;

FIG. 14 shows a bottle handling system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In brief, the automated solution dispenser prepares liquid solutionsfrom a combination of solids and liquids, using a range of sensors toverify the correctness of the prepared solution. A number of sub-systemscomprise the automated solution dispenser, which are grouped as coresystems and auxiliary systems.

The core systems comprise the following:

-   -   1. Central Mixing Chamber (CMC). The CMC collects and holds the        dispensed liquids and solids, mixes them and adjusts the pH        value of the solution with help of the Liquid Handling System        (LHS) and Solid Handling System (SHS), and the temperature of        the solution according to the user's specification. The        resulting solution is then discharged into the Pivot Pipe System        (PPS). Next, the CMC is cleaned in preparation for the next        solution. It includes the following sub-systems:        -   a. Mixing chamber (e.g. by means of an cylindrical            container)        -   b. pH sensor (e.g. by means of a pH sensor)        -   c. Temperature sensor and control (e.g. by means of a            controlled immersion heater)        -   d. Stirrer/Agitator (e.g. by means of an magnetic stirrer            bar contained in the CMC which is driven by an external            rotating magnetic field)        -   e. Liquid level sensor (e.g. by means of an ultrasound level            sensor)        -   f. Turbidity sensor (e.g. by means of a turbidity sensor)        -   g. Controlled outlet (e.g. by means of a ball valve)    -   2. Flush and Verification System (FVS). The FVS is an integrated        system that ensures that the CMC is clean before each use to        prevent any cross contamination between sequentially prepared        liquid solutions. It includes the following sub-systems:        -   a. Cleaning mechanism (e.g. by means of a spray device            releasing heated water)        -   b. Cleanliness sensor (e.g. by means of monitoring the            conductivity of the CMC discharge)    -   3. Liquid Handling System (LHS). The LHS releases controlled        amounts of liquids into the CMC. It includes the following        sub-systems:        -   a. Delivery mechanism (e.g. by means of a peristaltic pump)        -   b. Measuring mechanism (e.g. by means of a peristaltic pump)    -   4. Control System (CS). The CS is the electronics and software        logic that controls all the core and auxiliary systems within        the device.    -   5. Pivot Pipe System (PPS). The PPS directs the CMC discharge to        the correct station (e.g. filtering/bottling position or drain        position).

The auxiliary systems include, but are not limited to, the following:

-   -   6. Solid Handling System (SHS). It includes the following        sub-systems:        -   a. Delivery mechanism (e.g. by means of an enclosed dosing            screw)        -   b. Measuring mechanism (e.g. by means of a load cell)    -   7. Bottle Handling System (BHS). The BHS supplies an empty        bottle (or any other suitable container) to the CMC discharge        point, which is then filled with the solution discharged from        the CMC. It also ensures that the bottle is correctly        positioned. In some cases the BHS will feed directly into        another machine/equipment.    -   8. Filtering System. The Filtering System filters the solution        before it is bottled.    -   9. Bottle Marking/Label (BM)—The BM marks/labels the bottle        containing the prepared solution with a solution information        label (e.g. by means of a printed sticky label or directly        printing the information onto the bottle).    -   10. Water Purifier. The Water Purifier includes deionisation        and/or filtration of feed/input water to obtain a certain water        quality, e.g. ‘ultrapure’ or Type 1 water as for example laid        out by ISO 3696. The addition of a water purification system is        advantageous in an automated solution preparation system, since        that purified water is predominantly used to either prepare        liquid solutions or clean materials and components used in the        preparation process.

Central Mixing Chamber

The purpose of Central Mixing Chamber (CMC) is to mix user specifiedliquid solutions from various forms of solids and liquids, withoutdirect human input. The CMC has a number of aspects:

-   -   A) Liquid and solids inlets    -   B) Mixing area and Heating    -   C) Stirrer    -   D) Instrumentation    -   E) Valve & outlet

Referring to FIG. 2, the liquid and solid inlets are located in the topsection of the CMC (2-A), where each liquid has its own inlet (2-3),while solids have a common inlet port (2-2). The liquid tubes use anozzle (needles) to control the size of liquid drops that enter the CMCat a time, increasing the accuracy of the liquid dosing. The liquidinlet holds the liquid tube in place and when necessary will have asealed connection, either with a sealant (2-3A) or a mechanical seal(2-3B).

In some embodiments, the mechanical seal can be in the form of athreaded connection with o-ring seals, or as a compression fitting. Theliquid inlet can be either let directly into the CMC or through anozzle.

The cleaning nozzle ring (lower section of 2-2) is also located in thetop section of the CMC, and surrounds the common solid inlet. Thecleaning nozzle provides the cleaning and flushing liquid to clean theCMC between each solution creation. All exposed internal surfaces of theCMC are cleaned to prevent cross contamination between sequentialpreparation of solutions. A nozzle example is a hollow ring that hasspray nozzles on the inside (directed towards the solid inlet) and onthe outside(directed towards the exposed internal CMC surface) throughwhich pressurized hot water is delivered to all the CMC surfaces.

In some embodiments, the solid inlet and cleaning nozzle are insteadseparated, and use a spray ball nozzle (static or dynamic). The cleaningnozzle can also be incorporated into the CMC wall, so that the nozzlecentre becomes the solid's inlet and could also contain the liquidinlets.

The bottom of the CMC is comprised with the Valve & Outlet section(lowest point) (2-E), with the instrumentation (sensor) section (2-D)above it, and the stirrer/agitator section (2-C) on top of it (It ispossible to swap the two sections, 2-C and 2-D around). The Valve&Outlet section is comprised of the valve (2-9), which has an actuator(2-8), which could be a stepper motor or any other form of actuator.This actuator opens and closes the valve. The depicted implementationuses a ball valve design that is incorporated into the CMC body, otherdesigns utilise a plug design. The valve (2-9) when in the closedposition, will hold the liquid solution within the CMC. When the valveis open the liquid will be directed through the outlet (2-11) either tothe drain or to the Bottle Handing System (BHS) or the Filtering Systemof the device. If the plug valve design is used, the plug is openedeither directly or indirectly by a linear actuator (eg solenoid)

A standard off the shelf valve can be used instead of an integratedvalve assembly.

The volume of the solution in the CMC is measured by a level sensor(2-1), as the level/volume of the CMC can be mathematically determined.The instrumentation section allows the pH sensor (2-7) to penetrate theCMC wall, which is sealed either with a sealant or a mechanical seal(2-7A). This section also houses the temperature sensor (2-6) and hasroom for additional sensors. The instruments can be located below orabove the stirrer section, to prevent instrumentation from possibledamage from the rotating stirrer (2-4).

The mechanical seal can be in the form of a threaded connection witho-rings or a compression fitting.

The stirrer is comprised of two parts, the external driver (2-5) and theinternal stirrer (2-4). The internal stirrer is a magnetic bar (2-4), orequivalent, located within the CMC. The external driver (2-5) is locatedoutside of the CMC and provides a rotating magnetic field around theCMC's centreline. This magnetic field interacts with the internalstirrer's permanent magnetic field, causing it to rotate about the CMC'scentreline. An example of the external driver, as shown in the drawings,is a set of synchronized electromagnets that are timed to induce arotating electromagnetic field.

Alternatively, one or more magnets are mounted on a bearing or arace-rail that is then rotated around the CMC's centreline using a motoror similar actuator and a coupling (belt, gear, etc).

Dedicated hard points support (2-12) all the weight of the CMC, itscomponents and liquid solution.

Additionally a heating and cooling arrangement can be implemented tocontrol the temperature of the solutions being created.

The material selected for the CMC and all the wetted surfaces needs tobe compatible with the range of chemicals being handled, (materialexample: PET). The CMC is sized to hold the maximum desired liquidsolution volume plus any additional space required to enable uniformmixing (for example the total CMC volume is 1.25 times the maximumdesired liquid solution volume).

The CMC components have a degree of integration available to it. Forexample the valve can be either integrated into the CMC body orconsidered as a separate component. The same applies to the cleaningnozzle.

An alternative to the cleaning nozzle is to seal the CMC and flood/flushthe CMC repeatedly until clean.

An additional option is to mount load cells on the legs to measure theweight of the CMC and solution. An alternative to leg supports withload-cells it to mount the CMC on a canter lever with integratedload-cells/strain gauges. It is also possible to mount all the legs on asingle load-cell/scale.

Flush and Verification System (FVS)

The purpose of the Flush and Verification System (FVS) is to provide thedevice with an automated system to clean the CMC and the ability toverify the cleanliness of the CMC. This is achieved by providingpressurized water, with the option of adding detergent to the CMC, andmeasuring the conductivity, or equivalent, of the water leaving the CMCto measure the cleanliness.

Referring to FIG. 3, the FVS consists of:

-   -   Hot Water Generator with an optional storage (HWGS) (3-2)    -   Pressure pump (3-3)    -   Piping and tubing, and fittings    -   Cleanliness sensor like conductivity meter or equivalent (3-5)    -   Optional detergent tank and injection pump (3-6)

Alternatively, pressurized water can be provided externally making thepressure pump redundant.

The FVS is connected to the water supply, and can be isolated by usingthe inlet valve (3-1). This is to prevent leakage if the supply isaccidentally disconnected, without following the draining procedure.

The water flows into the Hot water Generator and optional storage (HWGS)(3-2). The HWGS can be either a custom-made water tank with an installedelectrical heater, or a flow through heater.

Depending on the water supply source specification, it is possible toreplace the HWGS (3-2) with a flow through heater without storage. Ifthe supply water is insufficient then the hot outlet of the HWGS (3-2)is connected to the pressure pump (3-3) inlet, and the pump outlet isconnected to the CMC. Otherwise the hot outlet of the HWGS is connectedto the CMC. The pump (3-3) is sized to provide the sufficient pressureand flow to clean the CMC, and will be dependent on the size of the CMCand its cleaning nozzle design. Any pump can be used, provided that itmeets the flow and pressure requirements and is able to handle the hotwater safely.

The water from the CMC will flow into the Drain station (3-4), which isconnected to the drains. In the line a conductivity sensor (3-5), orequivalent, will be mounted to test the cleanliness of the water exitingthe CMC.

The detergent option (3-6) consists of a detergent source, an injectionpump and a check valve. The option can be implemented by installing acheck valve on the connections between the hot water tank and pressurepump. The detergent can be stored either in an internal tank or anexternal tank/bottle, and is connected to an injection pump. TheInjection pump will force the detergent into the water line between thecheck valve and the pump. The detergent needs to overcome the waterpressure. The check valve is to prevent the detergent from flowing intothe hot water tank. The detergent tank and injection pump can becombined into a syringe that the user will need to replace once it isempty.

Liquid Handing System

The purpose of the Liquid Handing System (LHS) is to accurately delivera specified amount of liquid. These liquids include but are not limitedto:

-   -   Acid (various concentrations)    -   Base (various concentrations)    -   Water    -   pH calibration liquids    -   pH sensor storage solution    -   Stock solutions (for example: chemicals that are only available        in liquid form)    -   Components that require to be added in liquid form for safety,        dosing accuracy, etc requirements

The LHS draws from various sources, which can be categorized:

-   -   Continuous supply, (for example: water from the water mains)    -   Internal supply (for example: integrated tanks)    -   External supply (for example: storage bottles)

Referring to FIG. 4, the liquid is drawn in through, e.g. a peristalticpump (4-2, 4-5, 4-7) and then pumped in controlled amounts into the CMC.The pumps configuration can be a single pump per CMC or one pump servingmultiple CMCs. In the case of multiple CMCs, the liquid path will needto be controlled by either a single valve/selector or through a seriesof valves. The pumps are driven by either a geared/non-geared steppermotor (4-1, 4-4), a geared/non-geared DC motor (4-1, 4-4), or a lineardriver (4-8).

The pumps used are of a positive displacement type, which include butare not limited to:

-   -   Single peristaltic pump (4-5)    -   Multiple channel peristaltic pump (4-2, 4-3)    -   Syringe pump (4-7)    -   Piston/plunger pump (4-7)    -   Reciprocating pump (4-7)    -   Diaphragm pump    -   Screw pump    -   Rotating lobe pump

The pumps can be either self-priming, gravity-primed by placing the pumpunderneath the liquid source, or the liquid source (for example: watermain line) can be pressurized.

A dosing valve or an alternative method of dosing specific amounts ofliquids

The liquid sources, pumps, CMG are all connected by tubes (4-9). Thetube material is selected to be suitable for the liquid containedwithin. The tubes connections can vary with each application, andinclude the following:

-   -   Sealed. The tube is permanently sealed to the item using an        adhesive and sealant that is resistant to the liquid handled.    -   Mechanical Seal (MS). Referring to FIG. 5, the tube (5-1) is set        in the tube holder (5-2) which in then either screwed (5-4) into        or twist-locked into the base (5-5).An o-ring (5-3) ensures that        there is no leakage, and can be install on any tube holder (5-2)        and base (5-5) interface. Another option is to have a valve        (5-6) incorporated in the base (5-5) that will be opened by the        tube holder (5-2). The valve (5-6) will be closed by a spring        (5-7) when the tube holder (5-2) is removed.    -   Standard compression fitting    -   Barbed fittings

Control System

The purpose of the control system (CS) is to control the operation ofall systems in the device. The CS can be separated into:

-   -   1. Low level circuitry, comprising the hardware driver (e.g.        stepper motor controller, power relays, etc)    -   2. Sensor information post-processing circuitry (e.g. current        loop driver, Low noise amplifier, etc.)    -   3. Microcontroller/Microprocessor to control the low level        circuitry    -   4. Touchscreen User Interface and CPU, running the program code        and hosting the database structure

Pivot Pipe

The purpose of the Pivot Pipe (PP) is to direct the CMC discharge to thecorrect station. There will be at least two stations:

-   -   Drain (for the FVS)    -   Bottling station

Other stations might include but are not limited to:

-   -   pH sensor storage liquid recycle    -   Filtering and bottling    -   Degassing and bottling    -   Analyzing (e.g. fluorescence analysis) and bottling

Referring to FIG. 6, the gear holder (6-1) interfaces with the CMCoutlet, with an o-ring (6-2) to creating a seal so that the CMCdischarge does not leak out. The gear holder (6-1) has two thrustbearings (6-3) on the top and bottom of the gear holder (6-1), and has abottom plate (6-5) that is bolted (6-8) to the top supporting plate(6-4). The thrust bearing (6-3) are set in grooves to ensure that theyare correctly positioned and allows the gear holder to rotate freely.The gear holder (6-1) has a set of gears on the outer diameter and whichinterfaces with the pivot cog (6-6). The pivot cog is mounted on motor(6-7) that controls the rotation and position of the gear holder. Acurved rigid pipe (6-9) is attached to the gear holder (6-1), androtates with it. The liquid from the CMC flows through the rigid pipe(6-9) to the correct station. Limit switches can be used to confirm theposition of the rigid pipe (6-9) discharge.

Other alternatives include systems that enable the correct positioningof a pipe (flexible or rigid). These could include linear systems ordisposable systems.

It is possible to eliminate the need of the pivot pipe when the plugvalve design is used.

Solid Handling System

The purpose of the Solid Handling System (SHS) is to accurately dosevarious chemicals in loose solid/powder form.

Referring to FIG. 7, the system comprises the following components:

-   -   Solids Turn-Table (STT) (7-1) (or equivalent)    -   Solids Container (7-2)    -   Solids Dosing mechanism (SDM) (7-3)    -   Delivery System (SDS) (7-4)    -   Dosing mechanism driver (DMD) (7-4)    -   Solids weighing scales (SWS) (7-4)

The solids can come various forms, which can include:

-   -   Crystalline form    -   Loose powder    -   Clumpy powder

The solids are held in the solid container (7-2). These solids containercan either be a custom/purpose made or the original solids container.Each container has a SDM (7-3) mounted on the bottom of the container.The containers are located on a STT (7-1) or equivalent device thatenables the desired solids container to be aligned with the desiredCMC's solid's inlet. Once the container is in position the SDS (7-4)rises up and engages SDM (7-3). In the process the DMD (7-4) isconnected to the SDM (7-4), and it is the DMD (7-4) that drives the SDM(7-3), and doses the solids in controlled amounts. The solids aredispensed onto the SWS (7-4), which is directly underneath the SDM(7-3). Once the right amount (mass) is dispensed, the SWS then deliverthe solids into the CMC.

The SWS can be incorporated into the various aspects of the solidhandling. For example it can be designed to measure the decreasingweight of the solid's container.

Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the STT can be a turn table (8-1 & 9-1) withthe containers (8-5) attached at the circumference. The containers (8-5)can be held in place with a clip or slotted in place (8-4) or suspendedof the table. The turn table (8-1) is support on thrust bearing (8-2) orequivalent, and the turn table (8-1) is rotated by a motor (8-3) that ismounted on the central axis.

Alternatively, a conveyor system can be implemented to fit more bottlesin the same foot print area, with the added complexity. The turn tablecan be also be driven indirectly by a belt system

Referring to FIG. 10, the SDM is composed of an adapter piece (10-2)that screws on to the container (10-1) that holds the solids. Therotating base (10-3) fits within the adapter (10-2), and the base holdsthe dosing screw (10-4). The rotating base (10-3) with the dosing screw(10-4) are able to freely rotate around the adaptor. The gear gate(10-6) has a slotted groove that fits on the rotating base (10-3). Thisallows the gear gate to move up and down. The springs (10-5) holds thegear gate in the closed position (down), and is opened by the when theSDS engages the SDM. The gear gate (10-6) has a set of gear on the outerdiameter for the DMD with and through which to provide the rotationaldrive and control.

The gear gate (10-6) serves two purposes. The first is to provide therotational drive and control to the rotating base (10-3) and dosingscrew (10-4). The second is to close the container and internal workingsof the SDM when the container is not engaged and is dosing solids. Thisalso allows the container to be stored with solids in any positionwithout leaking any solids.

When the dosing screw (10-4) is rotating, the exposed screw grabs ontothe solids and carries the solid into the closed section of the screw.Once solid reaches the bottom of the screw, it is free to fall out ofthe screw and out though the open gate. If the solid sticks to the screwthe motion of the solids above pushes the stuck solid out.

Another addition would be to incorporate a multi-variable flow throughscrew that can be selected by controlling the height of the gear gate.

Referring to FIG. 11, the DMD consists of a delivery tube (11-1) whichhouses the SWS (11-8, 11-9, 11-10, 11-11, 11-12). On top of the delivertube sits the gear cog (11-3). The gear cog (11-4) is the one that mateswith the gear gate (10-6), the gears are designed to be self-aligning.The gear cog is driven by a motor (stepper, DC, etc) via a gear, belt orequivalent. The threaded section of the tube (11-5) forms part of thelifting system. A lead gear (11-6) engages the tube threads (11-5) andis driven by a driving cog (motor driven) (11-7). This driving cogrotated the lead gear (11-6) which in turn drives the tube (11-1) up ordown via the tube threads (11-5).

The SWS consists of a weight dish (1 1-8), which is attached to a weightsensor (11-9). The weight sensor is housed in a rotating case (11-10).The casing has a rotating axial (11-11) which rotates the weight dish,sensor and case. This rotation is driven by a motor, solenoid orequivalent (11-11). The axis (11-11) is hollow for the weight sensor(11-9) wires. A barrier (11-12) is put in place to protect the sensorfrom liquid and solid ingress, for example bellow. This barrier cannotrestrict the movement of the dish nor hold any load.

An alternative is mount the weight sensor (11-9) outside the tube (10-1)to protect the sensor from any potential liquid, solid or corrosiondamage.

Care needs to be taken as the solids might have the tendency to attachthemselves to the tube (10-1) walls. The tube shape should be designedto eliminate or minimise this issue. Otherwise more active approachesinclude passive/active electrostatic barrier, non-stick paint ormaterial, etc. However the inside of the tube (11-1) up to and includingthe SWS will be cleaned by the spray nozzle during the cleaning cycle.

Alternatively, other linear actuator systems can be used instead of thelead screw, to raise the platform.

ALTERNATIVE: Referring to FIG. 12, the DMD consists of a gear cog (12-6)mounted on a motor (10-5). The gear cog (12-6) is the one that mateswith the gear gate (10-6), the gears are designed to be self-aligning.The DMD is then mounted on the raising platform (12-4) of the SDS. Theplatform (12-4) is raised by a lead screw assembly. This assemblyconsists of a screw nut (12-2) attached to the platform (12-4), which isset on the lead screw (12-1). The lead screw is rotated by the motor(12-3) that either rises or lowers the platform, which in turn eitherengages or disengages the SDM. Referring to FIG. 13, accurate dosing andapplication is achieved using the SWS (7-6). The SWS measures the solidsdosed from the selected container. The SWS consists weighting dish(13-1), scales mechanism (13-2, 12-4A, 13-4B) (load cell or forcecompensated electromagnet) and a flipping mechanism (13-3). The flippingmechanism (13-3) can be either independent (dedicated driver) ordependent (a set of guides or mechanical linkages) of the raisingplatform (12-4). The SWS moves up and down in the axis of the CMCsolid's inlet, and in the process rotates so that the weighting dish(13-1) is facing upwards to receive the solids from the SDM at the upposition. The weight dish (13-1) rotates when in moves down so that thesolids in the weighing dish are deposited into the CMC, and then thedish is able to close the CMC's solid inlet.

As mentioned before this system measures the solids dispensed from thesolid containers. Another alternative is to measure the solid containeras the solid is being dosed. This will require a different variation onthe design.

Bottle Handling System

The purpose of the BHS, refer to FIG. 14 is to ensure that the rightbottle is placed in the right position of the bottling station. The BHSalso has the Bottle Labelling (14-5) system that marks the bottles withthe necessary information.

There are various options for the bottle handling, from having a singlebottle station to a fully automated system. Each system will include thefollowing:

-   -   Bottle position    -   Position verification (14-3)    -   Bottle type (no bottle, empty bottle, full bottle) verification        (14-3)

Additional systems can include:

-   -   RFID/Barcode reader (14-4)    -   Bottle storage

The Bottle Labelling system provides labels that can be attached to thechemical bottles. Alternatively, the labels can be automatically appliedto the bottles or the information can be applied directly to the bottle(ink-jet).

The bottle is stored in the storage area until needed. A conveyer systemtakes a bottle to the filling station (14-3). On the way there might bea reader (14-4) which will verify the solution going into the bottle. Atthe filling station, the position of the bottle will be verified andwhether the bottle is empty. Once confirmed the bottle can be filledwith the newly created solution. Another conveyer system will take thebottle to pick-up area. On the way the bottle label/marking is applied.The conveyer system might consist of a belt or tape mechanism, or acassette/magazine mechanism.

Alternatively the bottle handling can be simplified by manually placingthe bottle in the filling stating and then applying the label manually.

The Filtration system can be integrated into the BHS, or it may beseparate from the BHS.

Process Description

Whilst there are going to be slightly different processes for thevarious solutions (depending on the solution needs and chemistryprocess), the generic process will be as follows:

-   -   Flush and verify cleanliness of CMC    -   Start dosing the following in parallel: water, any components        available as stock solutions, any components available in solid        form. Dose water so that once dosing is complete, an estimated        80% of the end amount has been filled (barring chemical need of        having more)    -   Stir during the whole period and stop once all the dosing is        done and everything has dissolved    -   Fill up to 99.9% of required volume    -   Adjust pH with either liquid or solid components until target pH        is reached, stirring during the process    -   Output the solution (possibly to a bottle or other container)    -   Print a label for the container with all the critical        information about its contents    -   Store information about what was done to create traceability    -   Start the clean cycle on the CMC in preparation for new solution

When the device is not in use, a premade solution shall be pumped intothe CMC to safely store the pH instrument. Before a new solution ismade, the CMC needs to be drained and cleaned. Alternatives include pHinstruments that can be stored in a dry environment.

Additionally the pH sensor is calibrated at regular intervals, usinglaboratory accepted standard solutions. A spot check calibration usedone verified pH solution to check the reading. A complete calibrationwill used two or more verified pH solutions to correctly calibrate thepH sensor.

Although the present invention has been described hereinabove withreference to specific embodiments, the present invention is not limitedto the specific embodiments and modifications will be apparent to askilled person in the art which lie within the scope of the presentinvention. Any of the embodiments described hereinabove can be used inany combination.

1.-61. (canceled)
 62. A method for generating a solution, comprising:(a) dispensing at least one liquid from a plurality of different liquidsand at least one solid from a plurality of different solids into achamber to yield a mixture; (b) sensing at least one characteristic ofsaid mixture selected from the group consisting of temperature, pH,chemical composition, weight, conductivity, and turbidity; (c) adjustinga quantity of said at least one liquid or said at least one solid basedat least in part on said at least one characteristic sensed in (b), toyield said solution having at least one target characteristic; and (d)dispensing said solution having said at least one target characteristic,wherein (a)-(d) are performed automatically.
 63. The method of claim 62,wherein said sensing comprises sensing more than one characteristic ofsaid mixture.
 64. The method of claim 62, wherein said sensing employs asolution sensor.
 65. The method of claim 64, wherein said solutionsensor comprises a turbidity sensor or a conductivity sensor.
 66. Themethod of claim 62, wherein said sensing employs a weighing unit. 67.The method of claim 64, wherein said sensing comprises a calibrationcycle of said solution sensor.
 68. The method of claim 62, wherein saidat least one target characteristic is selected by a user.
 69. The methodof claim 62, further comprising implementing a cleaning cycle.
 70. Themethod of claim 69, wherein implementing said cleaning cycle comprisesinputting a cleaning fluid into said chamber.
 71. The method of claim69, wherein implementing said cleaning cycle comprises measuring acleanliness of said chamber.
 72. The method of claim 62, wherein saidsolution is dispensed into a bottle selected based at least in part onsaid at least one target characteristic.
 73. The method of claim 62,wherein said dispensing of (d) comprises selecting a bottle from aplurality of bottles to receive said solution.
 74. The method of claim73, further comprising, subsequent to (d), transporting said bottlecomprising said solution to a storage area.
 75. The method of claim 62,further comprising receiving a request from a user interface to generatesaid solution according to said at least one target characteristic. 76.The method of claim 62, further comprising selecting said at least onesolid from said plurality of different solids based at least in part onsaid at least one target characteristic.
 77. The method of claim 62,further comprising selecting the at least one liquid from the pluralityof different liquids based at least in part on the at least one targetcharacteristic.
 78. The method of claim 62, wherein said dispensing of(a) comprises controllably dispensing said at least one solid or said atleast one liquid until said at least one target characteristic has beenmet.
 79. The method of claim 62, wherein said adjusting of (c) comprisesprocessing said at least one characteristic sensed in (b) against saidat least one target characteristic.
 80. The method of claim 62, whereinsaid at least one target characteristic is a plurality of targetcharacteristics.
 81. The method of claim 62, wherein (b) comprisessensing a plurality of characteristics of said mixture selected from thegroup consisting of temperature, pH, chemical composition, weight,conductivity, and turbidity.